Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl: Easy Recipe for a Flavorful Meal

Slow cooker chicken burrito bowl is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table with minimal effort. As someone who loves to explore different culinary traditions, I find that this recipe not only satisfies my taste buds but also offers a convenient way to enjoy a hearty meal. The slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender and infused with spices, creating a rich and savory base that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime.

This dish has gained popularity for its versatility and ease of preparation, making it a favorite among busy families and meal preppers alike. The combination of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and zesty beans creates a satisfying texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the slow cooker chicken burrito bowl is a fantastic way to incorporate wholesome ingredients into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup salsa
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Chicken and Rice

1. Start by placing the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the base of our delicious burrito bowl.
2. Next, add 1 cup of uncooked brown rice directly on top of the chicken. The rice will absorb all the flavors as it cooks, making it super tasty.
3. Now, it’s time to add the canned ingredients. Pour in the 1 can of black beans, making sure to drain and rinse them first. This helps to remove excess sodium and improves the flavor.
4. Next, add the 1 can of corn, drained, and the 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. These will add a nice kick and a lot of moisture to the dish.
5. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. This will help the rice cook perfectly and keep the chicken moist.

Seasoning the Dish

6. Now, let’s add some flavor! Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chili powder over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
7. Add 1 teaspoon each of cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These spices will give our burrito bowl a wonderful depth of flavor.
8. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper, but feel free to adjust according to your preference.

Cooking Process

9. Once everything is in the slow cooker, give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the chicken is somewhat submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
10. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. I prefer the low setting for a more tender chicken, but either works well.
11. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, check the chicken. If it’s cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), shred the chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. This will allow the chicken to soak up more of the flavors.
12. After shredding, give everything a good stir to mix the chicken back in with the rice and beans. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little more chicken broth or water at this point.

Assembling the Burrito Bowl

13. Once the cooking time is complete, it’s time to serve! Scoop a generous portion of the chicken and rice mixture into a bowl.
14. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese. I love using a Mexican blend for extra flavor, but cheddar works just as well.
15. Add diced avocado on top for creaminess. You can also add a dollop of sour cream if you like!
16. Drizzle some salsa over the top for an extra kick. You can use store-bought or homemade salsa, depending on your preference.
17. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and serve with lime wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lime juice over the bowl just before eating adds a wonderful zing!

Conclusion:

In summary, this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to simplify their meal prep while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying dish. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken, vibrant vegetables, and zesty spices creates a delightful harmony that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, the convenience of the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. For serving suggestions, consider topping your burrito bowl with fresh avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. You can also customize it by adding your favorite beans, corn, or even swapping out the chicken for beef or tofu to suit your dietary preferences. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl a try and make it your own. Once you’ve tasted the deliciousness, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way. Let’s spread the love for this easy and tasty recipe together! Print